DeShawna Smyth
DeShawna Smyth is an Assistant Project Manager for Prevention at the South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA), where she plays a vital role in advancing community-based substance use prevention and recovery initiatives. Based in Elk City, Oklahoma, DeShawna is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families through education, outreach, and harm reduction. Her work focuses on coordinating programs funded through federal and state grants to provide prevention resources and services across Beckham, Washita, and Caddo Counties.
With a Master of Science in Non-Profit Administration from LSU Shreveport and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, DeShawna brings both academic rigor and a service-oriented mindset to her leadership in the nonprofit sector. Her professional background combines community engagement, project management, and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on prevention and wellness. Before becoming Assistant Project Manager, she served as a Coalition Coordinator at SWODA, where she helped build partnerships and deliver evidence-based prevention programs.
Beyond her professional role, DeShawna is an active volunteer and community advocate. She has served as Secretary for the Friends of the Elk City Carnegie Library and as a committee member for the Elk City Cub Scout Pack 140, demonstrating her passion for education and youth development. Guided by a belief that her purpose in life is to help others, DeShawna continues to dedicate her career and personal time to strengthening communities and empowering individuals through compassion, prevention, and service.
• LSU Shreveport - MS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to over a decade of dedication in data analysis and my passion for helping others through horse therapy for individuals recovering from substance abuse. Additionally, raising four foster children has profoundly shaped my perspective and strengthened my commitment to making a positive difference. I strive to be the change I want to see in the world—offering hope, support, and stability to others and their families.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance and determination. I live by the belief that “never accepting no” means there is always a way to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful goals. As a proud member of GNHA, I am guided by a spirit of resilience, collaboration, and commitment to continuous growth and service.